Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou believes Liverpool will be just as anxious as his side as they prepare to face each other in the second leg of the League Cup semi-finals on Thursday.
Spurs take a slender 1-0 lead to Anfield and the Reds will be backing themselves to overturn the deficit and book their place in another final.
Arne Slot is having an emphatic season in his first as Liverpool boss but Postecoglou says there will be nerves, despite his opponents’ success and form under the Dutchman.
He said: “It’s a big occasion for everyone. It’s a semi-final. I don’t think Liverpool will be any less anxious than us.
“It’s a big game for both clubs. You recognise that, you embrace that, but ultimately if you want to be successful these are the games that you want to be involved with because the alternative is, you’ll be at home on the couch watching two other teams on the TV wishing you were there.
“In terms of availability, everyone is fine from last week so no issues there. Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel are both available, they have trained.
Ange Postecoglou says Micky van de Ven will not feature in their EFL Cup second leg with Liverpool. pic.twitter.com/EPgYorBvq2
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 5, 2025
“With Micky [van de Ven] and [Cristian] Romero to a certain extent, I kind of feel we have to be a bit more conservative with them. Micky got through the game [vs Elfsborg] alright but I don’t think he feels ready for Premier League intensity and that’s the same with Cristian. We are going to keep them ticking over in training and make sure they are absolutely ready with no set-backs.”
Spurs secured the deadline day signing of Tel, despite the young Frenchman rejecting a move initially.
But Postecolgopu has quashed rumours that the 19-year-old joined the North London club because it was his only choice.
He added: “I think people need to understand that you are talking about a 19-year-old who has to make a major decision for his career and it’s not that he rejected us or rejected anyone else – I think he just wanted to be comfortable with his decision. I don’t think he wanted to be pushed in a certain direction and it’s credit to him.
“I had a conversation with him and it was purely around the football and I think he’ll find a really good place for him here. Irrespective of age he will get an opportunity here. The way we play I think will suit him and what we are building beyond – I thought this would be the perfect fit for his next step. I think it’s right that he took time in his decision.
“I am more than 100% sure that he wants to be here. He was so diligent when he made the decision that it gave me even more confidence that we were getting the right kind of mentality and player. He is very ambitious. He has a great deal of self belief and confidence and it feels like he can reach the very top of the game.”
